The college presented honorary degrees to six leaders in activism, philanthropy, painting, directing, and community engagement: MacArthur Fellow and award-winning theatre director David Cromer; former Columbia vice president for student success and current commissioner of Chicago’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, Mark Kelly; international startup investor and civic leader, the late Richard “Dick” Paul Kiphart; renowned painter and artist Kerry James Marshall; and social justice advocates and LGBT allies Judy and Dennis Shepard.

The ceremonies occurred on Saturday, May 13, at 10 a.m., 1:30 p.m., and 5 p.m. and on Sunday, May 14, at 2 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.

Congratulations to all of our graduates! Don't forget to share your big day with #ColumCommence2017!